Yearly Archive: 2024

7

Maretron Announces the Launch of MConnect

Maretron, a renowned leader in marine technology, is excited to announce the launch of its groundbreaking new product, MConnect. This state-of-the-art web server connects seamlessly with a boat’s NMEA 2000 network, offering unparalleled access to hundreds of data points for comprehensive monitoring of vessel devices and components. MConnect is now available with an introductory price of $599…

16

SFK 275EX, space efficient and feature packed LiFePO4 battery

At first glance, the SFK 275EX looks like many other 275-300 amp hour internal BMS lithium iron phosphate batteries. With Bluetooth communications, heating, long cycle life, and a good warranty it seems to compete well with other batteries. But, closer inspection reveals a battery with features above and beyond anything I’ve seen in similar form-factor and priced batteries. Not only that, it comes with a thorough and readable manual.

3

Garmin introduces inReach Messenger Plus SOS satellite communicator with photo and voice messaging

Garmin today announced the inReach Messenger Plus, its first satellite communicator with photo and voice messaging in addition to global two-way texting, location sharing and SOS capabilities. Lauded for a durable and temperature-resistant design, Garmin inReach devices are built for those that explore beyond cell coverage – on land, in the sky or on the water. With a battery life that can last for weeks…

6

A new Panbo test boat, more space for more stuff

A lot has changed since early 2020 when I took delivery of my first, outboard powered, small test boat. Since then, the world experienced a global pandemic, Hurricane Ian devastated Fort Myers and surrounding areas, and we lost Have Another Day. Also, though less dramatic, I found my testing shifted towards the small boat and away from testing on a 57-footer. At the same time, after four years of installing equipment on her, Panbo(at) was beginning to look like the proverbial five pound bag stuffed with ten (or more) pounds of… stuff. So, I did the only logical thing and bought a bigger bag!

3

My test bench runneth over with lithium from SFK, Mastervolt, and Epoch

I have big things planned for upcoming battery tests. I’m working to evolve my testing of LiFePO4 batteries to match their evolution. Battery capacities are increasing, physical size is decreasing, prices are dropping rapidly, and acceptance is increasing. New options hit the market regularly and keeping up with the pace of change can be challenging. In the coming months, I will review quite a few batteries in different positions in the market and try to help readers decide which price point and battery is right for them.

16

Pitufino wifi gateway and NMEA tool kit

Products developed by active cruisers grab my attention. In my experience, products created onboard solve needs and fix issues directly experienced by the creator. Pitufino is no exception. There is no shortage of NMEA 2000 to WiFi gateways in the marketplace. There are also quite a few NMEA 0183 gateways. But few of them are nearly as ambitious, flexible, or offer as many features as the Pitufino gateway.

1

LOOKOUT Launches Advanced AI Technology For Augmented Marine Navigation

LOOKOUT, an AI pioneer in marine safety, revolutionizes marine navigation with the launch of the LOOKOUT camera system, designed to detect hazards beyond human capability. Built by a team of leading AI researchers, video game developers, 3D designers, and hardware engineers, the LOOKOUT camera system uses advanced computer vision algorithms to detect and track every marine hazard, such as other vessels, buoys, debris, whales, and even people in the water…